Tactful Speech Quotes

Amongst such as out of cunning hear all and talk little, be sure to talk less; or if you must talk, say little.

Discretion of speech is more than eloquence, and to speak agreeably to him with whom we deal is more than to speak in good words, or in good order.

I know I probably offend some people. I have been talking a little too much so I'm trying not to talk as much.

Hint at the existence of wickedness in a light, easy, and agreeable manner, so that nobody's fine feelings may be offended.

The time comes upon every public man when it is best for him to keep his lips closed.

Prudent is he who can keep silent that part of truth which may be untimely, and by not speaking it, does not spoil the truth of what he said.

Often I must speak otherwise than I think. This is called diplomacy.

And surely one of the best rules in conversation is, never to say a thing which any of the company can reasonably wish had been left unsaid.

It is but a small merit to observe silence, but it is a grave fault to speak of matters on which we should be silent.

To say nothing, especially when speaking, is half the art of diplomacy.

You should try not to talk so much, friend. You'll sound far less stupid that way. - Breeze

I used some vivid language that, if I could take it back, I'd take it back. It's not my intention to be personally critical of the President or of anyone else.

If you are a wise man, sitting in the council of your lord, direct your thought toward that which is wise. Be silent rather than scatter your words. When you speak, know that which can be brought against you. To speak in the council is an art, and speech is criticized more than any other labor; it is contradiction which puts it to the proof

I said you LOOKED like an egg, Sir. And some eggs are very pretty, you know.

Sometimes you best avoid talking by being quiet, but sometimes you best avoid talking by talking.

Politeness is the art of choosing among your thoughts.

He is forever poised between a cliche and an indiscretion.

If you don't have anything nice to say... dead silence creates a lot awkwardness.